Seriously though, I am really glad to see JMaxx slimmed down and quicker. He will always remain tough, so he should now have the combination to be a real factor. I wanted to see him more in Corliss' role coming in at the 3. He would be way too much for the other 3s in the league to handle.

I'm hoping that JMax's free throw problems can be attributed to not being in game shape. He shot better in college. He has a nice touch when he shoots on the floor. It can take a lot of real playing time (not practice) for some of the bigger guys to really get their legs under them. McDyess shot poorly at the start of last season until he really got in shape.

To JMax, the ball probably feels too light when he's pumped or too heavy when he's tired. His % should improve as the year goes on. He is no Ben Wallace form-wise.

If I'm not mistaken (I do this strictly on unconfirmed reports), Jason Maxiell has been the Pistons' leading scorer three straight games. The 6-7 sophomore, who compares his quickness in the occupied area, his bulky body and, no doubt, humility, to Charles Barkley, has averaged almost 11 free throws. Next step is make 'em (58 percent), or at least make more than Ben Wallace used to.

Maxiell, drafted No. 27 overall in '05 after four years at Cincinnati, could've been one of the worst (hardest, for sure) postgame interviews for me last year on NBA-TV. Yeah, I suppose it could've had something to do with the fact he'd only played three minutes that night, if that. I'm guessing Maxiell will be a little more agreeable and forthcoming this season.

Maxiell did the post-game interview on FSN Detroit last night. I have to agree with Vescey that interviews aren't his strong suit. He mumbled some crap that had nothing to do with the questions. I do like his game, though.